Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially presented the staff of office and certificate of appointment to the 46th Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade, marking the formal ascension of the new monarch to the revered throne of Alaafin of Oyo.
The brief ceremony, held on Monday, January 13 at the state government house, Agodi,Ibadan.
The event which held quietly was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers and leaders, government officials, and enthusiastic Oyo indigenes.
Governor Makinde, while presenting the insignia of office, described the Alaafin-elect as a leader poised to uphold the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
The governor stated that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition, while expressing belief that Oba Akeem Abimbola Woade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom.
Prince Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, whose reign lasted for five decades.
The new Alaafin expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo and pledged to prioritize the development of the kingdom and the welfare of its residents.
The coronation of Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo is expected to usher in a new era of leadership, with a focus on cultural preservation, youth development, and economic growth in the Oyo Kingdom.
As the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Woade’s reign is anticipated to carry forward the legacy of the monarchy while adapting to the challenges of the modern era.